One of my favorite albums of last year was the debut album by UK band TOY. Featuring ex members of Joe Lean & the Jing Jang Jong (don't hold that against them) and fronted by Tom Dougall (brother of Rose Elinor Dougall), the band make motorik shoegaze that doesn't skimp on the hooks. (Yes, they are a little like The Horrors.) You can stream the album below and check out a few music videos ("Motoring" is especially good).

The band will be in North America for SXSW and will play two shows NYC on the way back: Mercury Lounge on March 19 with fellow UK band Swim Deep. Tickets go on sale Friday (2/15) at noon. TOY will then play Knitting Factory on March 20 and tickets to that show are on sale now.

Came across a band called Toy recently and have been enjoying their self- titled debut album. Slightly indie and slightly psychedelic rock for the most part. 'Motoring' is one of my favourite tracks from the album and hasn't yet failed to grab my attention when I've been listening to it.﻿